Not an Easy Win
RANDOM HOUSE BOOKS FOR YOUNG READERS, FEBRUARY 28, 2023
Cover Art by Xia Gordon | Cover Design by Katrina Damkoehler
Can Lawrence figure out how to get on the board, even though the odds are stacked against him?
Introducing a powerful novel about family, forgiveness, and figuring out who you are when you don’t make the rules—just right for middle grade fans of Nic Stone and Jason Reynolds.
Lawrence is ready for a win . . .
Nothing’s gone right for Lawrence since he had to move from Charlotte to Larenville, North Carolina, to live with his granny. When Lawrence ends up in one too many fights at his new school, he gets expelled. The fight wasn’t his fault, but since his pop’s been gone, it feels like no one listens to what Lawrence has to say.
Instead of going to school, Lawrence starts spending his days at the rec center, helping out a neighbor who runs a chess program. Some of the kids in the program will be picked to compete in the Charlotte Classic chess tournament. Could this be Lawrence's chance to go home?
Lawrence doesn’t know anything about chess, but something about the center—and the kids there—feels right. Lawrence thought the game was over . . . but does he have more moves left than he thought?
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Honors & Awards
Trade Reviews & Praise
⭐️ “The characters are multidimensional and authentic: Complex issues, including poverty, parental incarceration, and racism, are explored with sensitivity, offering readers opportunities for reflection. Giles skillfully illustrates the nuances and cultural tensions that arise in multigenerational homes and masterfully captures the origins, cadences, and mannerisms common to many African American elders with compassion. Stellar." —Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review
⭐️ “VERDICT: This is an all-consuming read about a young Black boy finding community and purpose. Essential middle grade and tween realistic reading." —School Library Journal, Starred Review
⭐️ “Fans of Akeelah and the Bee and Brooklyn Castle will cherish this well-characterized, compassionately told story…" —Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
⭐️ “Chess proves a perfect lens through which to observe Lawrence’s struggles and growth, and the appealing protagonist is sure to inspire readers to get their hands on a game board of their own. A wise and wonderful story.” —Booklist, Starred Review
“The importance of caring adults and of working through conflict are highlighted in this well-written story about a boy who deserves a win.” —The Horn Book
“Chrystal D. Giles turns chess into a drama-filled endeavor in this empathetic novel with special appeal for anyone who feels misunderstood or out of place.”—Bookpage
“Giles gives readers an honest story about growing up in a world that affords few breaks to Black youth....each character is moving through the world with varied strengths and abilities.” —The Bulletin
“Giles has written the most endearing character in a timely, needed story. Not An Easy Win pushes emotional buttons, poses questions and offers answers as you root for Lawrence and the entire cast. A brave and honest story that will linger with you long after you've turned the last page.” —Alicia D. Williams, author of Newbery Honor winner for, Genesis Begins Again